In the ever-evolving world of heavy metal, few events have garnered as much attention as Eloy Casagrande and his recent integration into Slipknot. On December 21, 2024, at London’s iconic O2 Arena, Casagrande’s performance of “Liberate” was immortalized through a drum-cam video, offering fans an intimate glimpse into his percussive prowess.
Eloy Casagrande and his journey to this monumental stage began earlier in 2024 when he made the pivotal decision to depart from Sepultura, a band he had been an integral part of for over a decade. The opportunity to audition for Slipknot arose at a time when Sepultura had announced their 40th-anniversary farewell tour, making the transition both timely and bittersweet. Reflecting on this period, Casagrande shared, “Everything happened at the end of 2023 when I got a call from Slipknot’s manager asking me if I was interested in doing an audition… That was the place that I always wanted to be.”
The audition process was both rigorous and clandestine. Casagrande meticulously prepared by recording six songs in a São Paulo studio, three of his choosing and three specifically requested by the band: “Eyeless,” “Purity,” and “Gematria.” This dedication culminated in a ten-day audition in Palm Springs, California, where he rehearsed intensively with the band, each day presenting a new setlist to master.
His official debut with Slipknot was met with anticipation and scrutiny, especially given the circumstances surrounding his predecessor, Jay Weinberg. Weinberg’s departure in November 2023 was described by the band as a “creative decision,” a move that left him “heartbroken and blindsided.” The subsequent fan backlash added pressure on Casagrande to prove his mettle.
The London performance of “Liberate” stands as a testament to Casagrande’s seamless integration into the band’s dynamic. The drum-cam footage captures not only his technical skill but also his ability to channel the raw energy and intensity that are hallmarks of Slipknot’s sound. This performance, along with others, has been pivotal in solidifying his place within the group.
Casagrande’s impact extends beyond live performances. In December 2024, he was honored as the No. 1 metal drummer in Modern Drummer magazine’s Readers’ Poll, a recognition that underscores his influence and prowess within the metal community.
As Slipknot continues to evolve, Casagrande’s contributions are poised to shape the band’s future soundscapes. His journey from a dedicated auditionee to a celebrated member exemplifies the transformative power of passion and resilience in the world of music.
For those eager to witness Casagrande’s exceptional performance, the drum-cam footage of “Liberate” from the London concert is available below: